As the weather changes from season to season, every condominium association should perform various tasks to ensure that its property is functioning properly. In each issue of Condominium Living, we will list seasonal tasks that are commonly overlooked, yet critical to a well-functioning property. Here are some important summer tasks:

BACKFLOW TESTING
As required by the state of Washington, test to make sure the system designed to keep your sprinkler system from improperly draining and contaminating your drinking water is working properly.

AIR CONDITIONER CLEANING
Clear air conditioning units of any leaves or debris so they can operate at peak efficiency. Unchecked air conditioners can overheat and create a fire hazard.

RESET OUTDOOR LIGHTING
If you use timers for your outdoor lights, long summer days mean they can be turned on later, and off earlier, thus saving energy and dollars.

IRRIGATION SETTINGS
Be sure that your sprinklers are set to water only where you need it, when you need it. It will conserve water, as well as help lower your water bill. A lower water bill means a lower sewer bill, since sewer costs are determined by water usage.

PRESSURE WASHING
Summer is a great time for cleaning—from windows, to your building, to the sidewalks outside. A buildup of mold on sidewalks can lead to slippery conditions on hard surfaces when the rains begin.